Looking for advise

Slayerx

At the moment I have just aquired a part-time job after been unemployed since Dec 2005 and the new job is only contracted for 4hrs a week

Am I entitled to any help such as JSA?

I did call the job centre but they weren't very helpful and have just palmed me off with lots of forms and little advise.

CIS

You might JSA or IS;

http://www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk/JCP/Customers/WorkingAgeBenefits/Jobseekerallowance/
or
http://www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk/JCP/Customers/WorkingAgeBenefits/Incomesupport/

Slayerx

Silly question but whats the diffrence are there any pros/cons that they have ?

tee_pee_2

I don't think you can get JSA as you are not actively looking for work ( as you are working ) but dependent on your circs you may be able to get working tax credit. You need to ring the CAB and speak to an advisor, sadly the DSS are not particularly helpful. Or ring your local Council/Housing Office as they hold surgeries for welfare rights experts to speak to you and help maximise your income. You should at least get help with rent/ CT if nothing else.

bonnie_2

is it really worth taking on a job for 4 hours a week. you have to work 16 to get tax credits. if you claim income support or jsa you are still allowed to earn so much a week without it affecting your benifits, depends on whether you are single or a family.

Slayerx

Well it was better than having no job at all which is the situation I was in before I took the job.

This job was a start and the hours should be increased once I've been there
longer.

sapphire1_2

depending on what your circumstances are ie live in partner, children, savings etc different benefits have different eligibility, including CTB or HB. If you were to claim jsa that does come with the statement that you are actively seeking work, looking for work, and able to work. In their eyes as you only work a few hours it means you could either get another part time job or be available to take a full time job. Working under 16 hours again you can make a claim but deductions will be taken into account depending on your wage

Slayerx

Thanks for all the help, I rang them today and have a meeting on Monday to discuss my options.

Slayerx

Well its been a long process but I have my claim now in and I'm just waiting to see if I get it approved or not.

Scarlett1

Slayerx wrote:

Well its been a long process but I have my claim now in and I'm just waiting to see if I get it approved or not.

good luck :beer:

Slayerx

Thanks the cash will help me a lot towards bills.